Why you’re waking up with headaches and how to stop it.
Waking up with a headache can be a rough start to the day. Instead of feeling rested and ready, you’re dealing with pain that makes mornings miserable. Why does it happen? And, more importantly, how can you stop it? Understanding the causes and knowing when to get help can make all the difference.
Let’s figure out why your mornings might include headaches and what you can do to feel better.
What causes headaches in the morning?
Morning headaches can have several triggers. Here are some common reasons you might wake up with one:
Poor sleep quality: Sleep issues like insomnia or sleep apnea can disrupt your rest and lead to headaches.
- Teeth grinding or clenching: Grinding or clenching your teeth at night can strain your jaw and cause headaches.
- Dehydration: Not drinking enough water the day before can leave you waking up with a headache.
- Caffeine withdrawal: If your body is used to caffeine and you don’t have any, it can cause withdrawal symptoms like headaches.
- Stress and tension: Worry and stress can carry over into your sleep, making you wake up with a headache.
Alcohol consumption: Drinking alcohol before bed can lead to dehydration and morning headaches.
Should I worry about morning headaches?
Most of the time, morning headaches are harmless and easy to treat. But there are times when they might mean something more serious. You should visit the closest emergency room if you experience any of the following:
- The headaches are sudden and very painful.
- They happen regularly and are getting worse.
- You feel dizzy, weak or confused along with the headache.
- You experience persistent vomiting
- You have a fever, stiff neck or blurred vision.
These could be signs of a bigger problem, like a serious illness or an underlying condition.
How to find relief and when to see a doctor for morning headaches.
You don’t have to let morning headaches take over your life. Here are some ways to find relief:
- Improve your sleep: Stick to a regular sleep schedule and create a relaxing bedtime routine.
- Stay hydrated: Drink plenty of water throughout the day to avoid dehydration.
- Address stress: Practice relaxation techniques like deep breathing or meditation.
- Limit caffeine: Reduce your caffeine intake slowly to avoid withdrawal headaches.
- Check your sleep posture: Make sure your pillow and mattress support your head and neck.
- Get tested for sleep apnea: If you snore or feel tired all day, talk to your doctor.
- Treat teeth grinding: A mouthguard can prevent clenching and ease jaw tension.
If these steps don’t help or the headaches keep coming back, visit a doctor. CityMD is here to help you find answers and relief. You can walk in at any time and our team will take care of the rest.
We’re ready to care for you.
Visit any CityMD urgent care location in your community today for an evaluation with one of our expert providers.